The main constituent of Japanese skin care products is seaweed extract. Specific types of seaweed, however, are more effective than others.

All types of marine algae, including Canadian brown algae and Wakame kelp, are beneficial to the skin’s health in different ways. Canadian brown alga, for example, has proven benefits in reducing wrinkles around the eyes. In laboratory studies, the algae increased new skin cell proliferation by a dramatic 25%.

We normally produce new skin cells and fibers. But, as we age, the process slows down. Brown algae and Wakame kelp extracts can help speed the process up again. They are found in some of the most effective anti-aging products on the market.

For many years, we have known that the levels of hyaluronic acid continue to fall, sometimes drastically, as we age. Many anti-aging products on the market today contain hyaluronic acid, a protein building block that acts like glue to increase elasticity by holding collagen, keratin and elastin together.

But, most of these products are ineffective. It seems that we cannot replace lost hyaluronic acid through supplementation.

Recently we have learned that a complex enzymatic process causes the breakdown and destruction of hyaluronic acid. Researchers took another look at the old Japanese skin care secret of Wakame kelp.

They found that components of the kelp block the enzymatic process. Creams and lotions that contain the extract have been shown in clinical studies to increase levels of hyaluronic acid to those of a much younger person.

Increased hyaluronic acid improves the skin’s elasticity, causing fine lines to fade and a return to firmness. Yet, there are other advantages to this type of Japanese skin care.

Scientific evaluation has shown that Wakame kelp is rich in sodium, iron, potassium and calcium. These minerals help to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance, which is neither too oily nor too dry.

The seaweed also contains the vitamins B1, 2, 3, 6 and 12, which naturally reduce inflammation. So, the extract is beneficial for reducing bags and helpful to men who shave, since they have a tendency to have excessive redness, irritation and inflammation.

The Japanese skin care secret also helps to fade dark circles, as does Canadian brown algae. In addition to all of these benefits to your appearance, researchers have discovered another beneficial component of Wakame kelp.

A compound called sulfated polyfucose is found in a few plants. It’s a kind of antioxidant that protects plants from damaging UV radiation emitted by the sun. The compound will also protect a human being’s skin from UV rays and environmental pollution.

UV rays and environmental pollution increase free radical production that can cause wrinkles or even skin cancer. Of course, the best products to use contain a number of different antioxidants, such as vitamin E and coenzyme Q10. You want as much protection from free radical damage as you can possibly get.

It is important to remember that there are pretenders on the market, so evaluate the ingredients carefully and look for Wakame kelp. That concludes your brief lesson in Japanese skin care. Hopefully, you know a little bit more about exactly what to look for.